The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service, has renewed Ghana’s commitment to ending viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.
The commitment was reaffirmed during this year’s World Hepatitis Day celebration, where health authorities announced fresh measures to prevent new infections and improve access to testing and treatment.
The event, held under the theme “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down,” brought together health professionals, development partners and other stakeholders to discuss ways to strengthen Ghana’s response to the disease.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister for Health, the Ministry’s Chief Director, Desmond Boateng, described viral hepatitis as a serious public health concern that requires sustained action, stronger partnerships and greater public involvement.
He announced plans to introduce the Hepatitis B birth-dose vaccine nationwide to protect newborn babies from infection. He also encouraged Ghanaians to undergo regular screening, stressing that early detection can help prevent severe complications and save lives.
The Director General of the Ghana Health Service, Dr Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, said the health sector was working to include hepatitis prevention, testing and treatment in primary healthcare services. He explained that the move would make essential services easier for people across the country to access.
Health experts at the event estimated that about three million people in Ghana are living with Hepatitis B, while more than 500,000 have Hepatitis C. The figures highlight the urgent need for wider public education, regular testing and early treatment.
One of the major moments of the event was the appointment of musician Okyeame Kwame as Ghana’s National Hepatitis Ambassador. He has spent more than 15 years supporting hepatitis awareness campaigns and organising free screening exercises.
As part of his new role, Okyeame Kwame unveiled a song aimed at encouraging Ghanaians to get tested and helping to reduce the stigma associated with the disease.
The Ministry also inaugurated a National Viral Hepatitis Technical Working Group to coordinate the country’s efforts towards achieving the 2030 elimination target.
Development partners and representatives from the health sector also pledged to continue supporting efforts to expand access to hepatitis testing, vaccination and treatment.
With the new measures, health authorities hope to increase early detection, prevent new infections and ensure that more people living with viral hepatitis receive the care they need.
